A travel alert was issued Monday to inform U.S. citizens of the risks of traveling to Cuba due to the approach of Hurricane Matthew, the State Department reports.

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The State Department continues to monitor the strength and path of Hurricane Matthew and recommends that U.S. citizens defer travel to eastern Cuba.

The travel alert will end on Oct. 7, the State Department said.

A hurricane warning was issued for the eastern provinces of Cuba, from Camaguey to Guantanamo.

Hurricane Matthew is expected to make landfall on Oct. 4, 2016. Strong winds and heavy rainfall may cause flash flooding and landslides that can lead to communications and transportation problems. Emergency and medical care, as well as water and food supplies, may also be impacted officials warn.

The State Department urges people to avoid any unnecessary travel through the affected regions.

U.S. citizens in the path of the storm should monitor local media as well as the National Hurricane Center for updates, and follow all instructions from local authorities.

Airports will close once conditions deteriorate and safe travel is not possible.